Deaths from hand, foot and mouth disease drop

Update:
October, 22/2015 - 18:16

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Rash on the hands is one of the common signs of hand, foot and mouth disease. — Photo baosuckhoe.org

HA NOI (VNS) — The number of children who have died from hand-foot-mouth disease has reduced, but the risk of outbreak remains in— this season, according to the Ministry of Health's Preventive Health Department.

The country has recorded more than 34,300 cases of hand, foot and mouth disease in the first nine months of this year, and there have been five deaths since.

According to health experts, the disease is a common viral illness among children under the age of three, especially those between 6 months and 12 months, who contract the disease easily and their condition deteriorates rapidly.

The disease peaks during two periods, from March to May, and from September to November, Dr Nguyễn Văn Lâm, head of Infectious Hospital of Paediatrics, said.

The common signs include fever, reduced appetite, sore throat and rash on hands, feet and the diaper area, he said.

The disease is transmitted through the digestive, and respiratory systems, and through the toys of children who are infected.

Most of the infected cases are usually not dangerous. However, in some cases, the disease can also cause side-effects such as encephalitis and meningitis and lead to death, doctors said.

There is neither a vaccine nor a drug to treat the disease. The preventive measure is personal hygiene by washing hands with soap and water, and cleaning and disinfecting toys and floors frequently.

Doctors also said that parents should learn the signs of the disease and take their children to the hospital for treatment early. — VNS